Respondent is the owner and operator of a pork manufacturing and supply business. As reported in the Respondent’s risk management plan, anhydrous ammonia, Chemical Abstract Service (“CAS”) Number 7664-41-7, is used at the Facility to cool and freeze its pork products. The Facility’s freezing and cooling system holds 201,852 pounds of anhydrous ammonia. On August 13, 2023, Respondent reported the release of approximately 160 pounds of anhydrous ammonia from the Facility due to an operator error, causing pressure in the lines to build and a PRV to vent to the roof. The release caused the building to be evacuated and
the initiation of the emergency notification process. This release led the EPA to initiate CAA Section 112(r) offsite compliance monitoring activities, including the issuance of the Information Request Letter to Respondent on March 14, 2024, pursuant to CAA Section 114. On April 19, 2024, Respondent provided the requested information to the EPA.